Trans-Spinal Theta Burst Magnetic Stimulation in Parkinson's Disease and Gait Disorders.

BACKGROUND: Gait disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) can become disabling with disease progression without effective treatment. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the efficacy of intermittent θ burst trans-spinal magnetic stimulation (TsMS) in PD patients with gait and balance disorders. METHODS: This was a randomized, parallel, double-blind, controlled trial. Active or sham TsMS was applied at third thoracic vertebra with 100% of the trans-spinal motor threshold, during 5 consecutive days. Participants were evaluated at baseline, immediately after last session, 1 and 4 weeks after last session. Primary outcome was Total Timed Up and Go (TUG) values comparing active versus sham phases 1 week after intervention. The secondary outcome measurements consisted of motor, gait and balance scales, and questionnaires for quality of life and cognition. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients were included, average age 68.5 (6.4) years in active group and 70.3 (6.3) years in sham group. In active group, Total TUG mean baseline was 107.18 (95% CI, 52.1-116.1), and 1 week after stimulation was 93.0 (95% CI, 50.7-135.3); sham group, Total TUG mean baseline was 101.2 (95% CI, 47.1-155.3) and 1 week after stimulation 75.2 (95% CI 34.0-116.4), P = 0.54. Similarly, intervention had no significant effects on secondary outcome measurements. During stimulation period, five patients presented with mild side effects (three in active group and two in sham group). DISCUSSION: TsMS did not significantly improve gait or balance analysis in patients with PD and gait disorders. The protocol was safe and well tolerated. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Homocysteine serum levels in patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: There is very few data regarding homocysteine's influence on the formation and rupture of intracranial aneurysms. OBJECTIVE: To compare homocysteine levels between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms, and to evaluate possible influences of this molecule on vasospasm and functional outcomes. METHODS: This is a retrospective, case-control study. We evaluated homocysteinemia differences between patients with ruptured and unruptured aneurysms; and the association of homocysteine levels with vasospasm and functional outcomes. Logistic regressions were performed. RESULTS: A total of 348 participants were included: 114 (32.8%) with previous aneurysm rupture and 234 (67.2%) with unruptured aneurysms. Median homocysteine was 10.75µmol/L (IQR = 4.59) in patients with ruptured aneurysms and 11.5µmol/L (IQR = 5.84) in patients with unruptured aneurysms. No significant association was detected between homocysteine levels and rupture status (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.96-1.04). Neither mild (>15µmol/L; OR = 1.25, 95% CI 0.32-4.12) nor moderate (>30µmol/L; OR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.54-1.81) hyperhomocysteinemia demonstrated significant correlations with ruptured aneurysms. Neither univariate (OR = 0.86; 95% CI 0.71-1.0) nor multivariable age-adjusted (OR = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.75-1.05) models evidenced an association between homocysteine levels and vasospasm. Homocysteinemia did not influence excellent functional outcomes at 6 months (mRS≤1) (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.94-1.16). CONCLUSION: There were no differences regarding homocysteinemia between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. In patients with ruptured aneurysms, homocysteinemia was not associated with vasospasm or functional outcomes.

ANTECEDENTES: Existem poucos dados sobre a influência da homocisteína na formação e rotura de aneurismas intracranianos (AI). OBJETIVO: Comparar os níveis de homocisteína entre pacientes com AI rotos e não rotos e influências no vasoespasmo e resultados funcionais. MéTODOS: Estudo caso-controle, que avaliou as diferenças de homocisteinemia entre pacientes com aneurismas rotos e não rotos, além da associação entre níveis de homocisteína, vasoespasmo e estado funcional. Regressões logísticas foram realizadas. RESULTADOS: Um total de 348 participantes foram incluídos: 114 (32,8%) com aneurismas rotos e 234 (67,2%) não rotos. A homocisteína mediana foi de 10,75µmol/L (IQR = 4,59) nos rotos e 11,5µmol/L (IQR = 5,84) nos não rotos. Não houve associação significativa entre os níveis de homocisteína e o status de ruptura (OR = 0,99, 95% CI = 0,96-1,04). Nem a hiperhomocisteinemia leve (>15µmol/L; OR = 1,25, 95% CI = 0,32-4,12) nem a moderada (>30µmol/L; OR = 1,0, 95% CI = 0,54-1,81) mostraram correlações significativas com aneurismas rotos. Modelos univariados (OR = 0,86; 95% CI = 0,71-1,0) e multivariados ajustados por idade (OR = 0,91; 95% CI = 0,75-1,05) não evidenciaram associação entre homocisteína e vasoespasmo. A homocisteinemia não influenciou resultados funcionais excelentes em seis meses (mRS ≤ 1) (OR = 1,04; 95% CI = 0,94-1,16). CONCLUSãO: Não houve diferenças em relação à homocisteinemia entre pacientes com aneurismas intracranianos rotos e não rotos. Em pacientes com aneurismas rotos, a homocisteinemia não foi associada ao vasoespasmo ou resultados funcionais.

New perspectives on assessment and understanding of the patient with cranial bone defect: a morphometric and cerebral radiodensity assessment.

Background: Skull defects after decompressive craniectomy (DC) cause physiological changes in brain function and patients can have neurologic symptoms after the surgery. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether there are morphometric changes in the cortical surface and radiodensity of brain tissue in patients undergoing cranioplasty and whether those variables are correlated with neurological prognosis. Methods: This is a prospective cohort with 30 patients who were submitted to cranioplasty and followed for 6 months. Patients underwent simple head CT before and after cranioplasty for morphometric and cerebral radiodensity assessment. A complete neurological exam with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), modified Rankin Scale, and the Barthel Index was performed to assess neurological prognosis. Results: There was an improvement in all symptoms of the syndrome of the trephined, specifically for headache (p = 0.004) and intolerance changing head position (p = 0.016). Muscle strength contralateral to bone defect side also improved (p = 0.02). Midline shift of intracranial structures decreased after surgery (p = 0.004). The Anterior Distance Difference (ADif) and Posterior Distance Difference (PDif) were used to assess morphometric changes and varied significantly after surgery. PDif was weakly correlated with MMSE (p = 0.03; r = -0.4) and Barthel index (p = 0.035; r = -0.39). The ratio between the radiodensities of gray matter and white matter (GWR) was used to assess cerebral radiodensity and was also correlated with MMSE (p = 0.041; r = -0.37). Conclusion: Morphological anatomy and radiodensity of the cerebral cortex can be used as a tool to assess neurological prognosis after DC.

Phenotypical characterization of exteroceptive sensation and pain symptoms on diabetic patients.

BACKGROUD: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is one of the most common complications of diabetes, affecting about half of individuals with the disease. Among the various symptoms of DN, the development of chronic pain stands out and manifests as exacerbated responses to sensorial stimuli. The conventional clinical treatments used for general neuropathy and associated painful symptoms, still brings uncomplete and unsatisfactory pain relief. Patients with neuropathic pain syndromes are heterogeneous. They present with a variety of sensory symptoms and pain qualities which difficult the correct diagnosis of sensory comorbidities and consequently, the appropriate chronic pain management. AIMS: Herein, we aimed to demonstrate the existence of different sensory profiles on diabetic patients by investigating epidemiological and clinical data on the symptomatology of a group of patients with DN. METHODS: This is a longitudinal and observational study, with a sample of 57 volunteers diagnosed with diabetes from outpatient day clinic of Hospital Universitário of the University of São Paulo-Brazil. After being invited and signed the Informed Consent Form (ICF), patients were submitted to clinical evaluation and filled out pain and quality of life questionnaires. They also performed quantitative sensory test (QST) and underwent skin biopsy for correlation with cutaneous neuropathology. RESULTS: Data demonstrate that 70% of the studied sample presented some type of pain, manifesting in a neuropathic or nociceptive way, what has a negative impact on the life of patients with DM. We also demonstrated a positive association between pain and anxiety and depression, in addition to pain catastrophic thoughts. Three distinct profiles were identified in the sample, separated according to the symptoms of pain: (i) subjects without pain; (ii) with mild or moderate pain; (iii) subjects with severe pain. We also identified through skin biopsy that diabetic patients presented advanced sensory impairment, as a consequence of the degeneration of the myelinated and unmyelinated peripheral fibers. This study characterized the painful symptoms and exteroceptive sensation profile in these diabetic patients, associated to a considerable level of sensory degeneration, indicating, and reinforcing the importance of the long-term clinical monitoring of individuals diagnosed with DM, regarding their symptom profiles and exteroceptive sensitivity.

Repercussions of the Emergency neurological life support on scientific literature: a bibliometric study.

BACKGROUND: In 2012, the Neurocritical Care Society launched a compilation of protocols regarding the core issues that should be addressed within the first hours of neurological emergencies - the Emergency neurological life support (ENLS). OBJECTIVE: We aim to evaluate this repercussion through a bibliometric analysis. METHODS: We searched Scopus on October 2022 for articles mentioning ENLS. The following variables were obtained: number of citations; number of citations per year; number of publications per year; year of publication; research type; research subtype; country of corresponding author and its income category and world region; journal of publication and its 5-year impact factor (IF); and section where ENLS appeared. RESULTS: After applying eligibility criteria, we retrieved 421 articles, published from 2012 to 2022. The mean number of citations per article was 17.46 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 8.20-26.72), while the mean number of citations per year per article was 4.05 (95% CI = 2.50-5.61). The mean destiny journal 5-year IF was 5.141 (95% CI = 4.189-6.093). The majority of articles were secondary research (57.48%; n = 242/421) of which most were narrative reviews (71.90%; n = 174/242). High-Income countries were the most prominent (80.05%; n = 337/421 articles). There were no papers from low-income countries. There were no trials or systematic reviews from middle-income countries. CONCLUSION: Although still low, the number of publications mentioning ENLS is increasing. Articles were mainly published in journals of intensive care medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and emergency medicine. Most articles were published by authors from high-income countries. The majority of papers were secondary research, with narrative review as the most frequent subtype.

ANTECEDENTES: Em 2012, a Neurocritical Care Society lançou uma compilação de protocolos sobre as questões centrais que devem ser abordadas nas primeiras horas de emergências neurológicas ­ Emergency neurological life support (ENLS). OBJETIVO: Avaliar a repercussão do ENLS por meio de uma análise bibliométrica. MéTODOS: A base de dados Scopus foi utilizada em outubro de 2022 para a busca por artigos mencionando o ENLS. As seguintes variáveis foram obtidas: número de citações; número de citações por ano; número de publicações por ano; ano de publicação; tipo de pesquisa; país do autor correspondente e sua categoria de renda; revista de publicação e seu fator de impacto de 5 anos (IF); e seção onde o ENLS apareceu. RESULTADOS: Os 421 artigos incluídos foram publicados de 2012 a 2022. A média de citações por artigo foi de 17.46 (intervalo de confiança (IC) 95% = 8.20­26.72), enquanto a de citações por ano por artigo foi de 4.05 (IC95% = 2.50­5.61). O IF médio por revista foi de 5.14 (IC95% = 4.19­6.09). A maioria dos artigos era de pesquisa secundária (57.48%; n = 242/421), dos quais a maioria eram revisões narrativas (71.90%; n = 174/242). Os países de alta renda foram os mais prolíficos (80.05%; n = 337/421 artigos). Não houve publicações de países de baixa ou média renda. CONCLUSãO: Embora ainda baixo, o número de publicações mencionando o ENLS vem aumentando recentemente. A maioria dos artigos foram publicados em revistas de medicina intensiva, neurologia, neurocirurgia e medicina de emergência. Artigos de pesquisa secundária foram os mais comuns, com revisões narrativas sendo o subtipo mais frequente.

TCD assessment in fulminant hepatic failure: Improvements in cerebral autoregulation after liver transplantation.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Acute liver failure, also known as fulminant hepatic failure (FHF), includes a spectrum of clinical entities characterized by acute liver injury, severe hepatocellular dysfunction and hepatic encephalopathy. The objective of this study was to assess cerebral autoregulation (CA) in 25 patients (19 female) with FHF and to follow up with seventeen of these patients before and after liver transplantation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The mean age was 33.8 years (range 14-56, SD 13.1 years). Cerebral hemodynamics was assessed by transcranial Doppler (TCD) bilateral recordings of cerebral blood velocity (CBv) in the middle cerebral arteries (MCA). RESULTS: CA was assessed based on the static CA index (SCAI), reflecting the effects of a 20-30 mmHg increase in mean arterial blood pressure on CBv induced with norepinephrine infusion. SCAI was estimated at four time points: pretransplant and on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd posttransplant days, showing a significant difference between pre- and posttransplant SCAI (p = 0.005). SCAI peaked on the third posttransplant day (p = 0.006). Categorical analysis of SCAI showed that for most patients, CA was reestablished on the second day posttransplant (SCAI > 0.6). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that CA impairment pretransplant and on the 1st day posttransplant was re-established at 48-72 h after transplantation. These findings can help to improve the management of this patient group during these specific phases, thereby avoiding neurological complications, such as brain swelling and intracranial hypertension.

Homocysteine serum levels in patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms: a case-control study / Homocisteína sérica em pacientes com aneurismas rotos e não rotos: um estudo caso-controle

Abstract Background There is very few data regarding homocysteine's influence on the formation and rupture of intracranial aneurysms. Objective To compare homocysteine levels between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms, and to evaluate possible influences of this molecule on vasospasm and functional outcomes. Methods This is a retrospective, case-control study. We evaluated homocysteinemia differences between patients with ruptured and unruptured aneurysms; and the association of homocysteine levels with vasospasm and functional outcomes. Logistic regressions were performed. Results A total of 348 participants were included: 114 (32.8%) with previous aneurysm rupture and 234 (67.2%) with unruptured aneurysms. Median homocysteine was 10.75μmol/L (IQR = 4.59) in patients with ruptured aneurysms and 11.5μmol/L (IQR = 5.84) in patients with unruptured aneurysms. No significant association was detected between homocysteine levels and rupture status (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.96-1.04). Neither mild (>15μmol/L; OR = 1.25, 95% CI 0.32-4.12) nor moderate (>30μmol/L; OR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.54-1.81) hyperhomocysteinemia demonstrated significant correlations with ruptured aneurysms. Neither univariate (OR = 0.86; 95% CI 0.71-1.0) nor multivariable age-adjusted (OR = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.75-1.05) models evidenced an association between homocysteine levels and vasospasm. Homocysteinemia did not influence excellent functional outcomes at 6 months (mRS≤1) (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.94-1.16). Conclusion There were no differences regarding homocysteinemia between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. In patients with ruptured aneurysms, homocysteinemia was not associated with vasospasm or functional outcomes.

RESUMO Antecedentes Existem poucos dados sobre a influência da homocisteína na formação e rotura de aneurismas intracranianos (AI). Objetivo Comparar os níveis de homocisteína entre pacientes com AI rotos e não rotos e influências no vasoespasmo e resultados funcionais. Métodos Estudo caso-controle, que avaliou as diferenças de homocisteinemia entre pacientes com aneurismas rotos e não rotos, além da associação entre níveis de homocisteína, vasoespasmo e estado funcional. Regressões logísticas foram realizadas. Resultados Um total de 348 participantes foram incluídos: 114 (32,8%) com aneurismas rotos e 234 (67,2%) não rotos. A homocisteína mediana foi de 10,75μmol/L (IQR = 4,59) nos rotos e 11,5μmol/L (IQR = 5,84) nos não rotos. Não houve associação significativa entre os níveis de homocisteína e o status de ruptura (OR = 0,99, 95% CI = 0,96-1,04). Nem a hiperhomocisteinemia leve (>15μmol/L; OR = 1,25, 95% CI = 0,32-4,12) nem a moderada (>30μmol/L; OR = 1,0, 95% CI = 0,54-1,81) mostraram correlações significativas com aneurismas rotos. Modelos univariados (OR = 0,86; 95% CI = 0,71-1,0) e multivariados ajustados por idade (OR = 0,91; 95% CI = 0,75-1,05) não evidenciaram associação entre homocisteína e vasoespasmo. A homocisteinemia não influenciou resultados funcionais excelentes em seis meses (mRS ≤ 1) (OR = 1,04; 95% CI = 0,94-1,16). Conclusão Não houve diferenças em relação à homocisteinemia entre pacientes com aneurismas intracranianos rotos e não rotos. Em pacientes com aneurismas rotos, a homocisteinemia não foi associada ao vasoespasmo ou resultados funcionais.

Repercussions of the Emergency neurological life support on scientific literature: a bibliometric study / Repercussões do Emergency neurological life support na literatura científica: um estudo bibliométrico

Abstract Background In 2012, the Neurocritical Care Society launched a compilation of protocols regarding the core issues that should be addressed within the first hours of neurological emergencies - the Emergency neurological life support (ENLS). Objective We aim to evaluate this repercussion through a bibliometric analysis. Methods We searched Scopus on October 2022 for articles mentioning ENLS. The following variables were obtained: number of citations; number of citations per year; number of publications per year; year of publication; research type; research subtype; country of corresponding author and its income category and world region; journal of publication and its 5-year impact factor (IF); and section where ENLS appeared. Results After applying eligibility criteria, we retrieved 421 articles, published from 2012 to 2022. The mean number of citations per article was 17.46 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 8.20-26.72), while the mean number of citations per year per article was 4.05 (95% CI = 2.50-5.61). The mean destiny journal 5-year IF was 5.141 (95% CI = 4.189-6.093). The majority of articles were secondary research (57.48%; n= 242/421) of which most were narrative reviews (71.90%; n= 174/242). High-Income countries were the most prominent (80.05%; n= 337/421 articles). There were no papers from low-income countries. There were no trials or systematic reviews from middle-income countries. Conclusion Although still low, the number of publications mentioning ENLS is increasing. Articles were mainly published in journals of intensive care medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and emergency medicine. Most articles were published by authors from high-income countries. The majority of papers were secondary research, with narrative review as the most frequent subtype.

Resumo Antecedentes Em 2012, a Neurocritical Care Society lançou uma compilação de protocolos sobre as questões centrais que devem ser abordadas nas primeiras horas de emergências neurológicas - Emergency neurological life support (ENLS). Objetivo Avaliar a repercussão do ENLS por meio de uma análise bibliométrica. Métodos A base de dados Scopus foi utilizada em outubro de 2022 para a busca por artigos mencionando o ENLS. As seguintes variáveis foram obtidas: número de citações; número de citações por ano; número de publicações por ano; ano de publicação; tipo de pesquisa; país do autor correspondente e sua categoria de renda; revista de publicação e seu fator de impacto de 5 anos (IF); e seção onde o ENLS apareceu. Resultados Os 421 artigos incluídos foram publicados de 2012 a 2022. A média de citações por artigo foi de 17.46 (intervalo de confiança (IC) 95% = 8.20-26.72), enquanto a de citações por ano por artigo foi de 4.05 (IC95% = 2.50-5.61). O IF médio por revista foi de 5.14 (IC95% = 4.19-6.09). A maioria dos artigos era de pesquisa secundária (57.48%; n= 242/421), dos quais a maioria eram revisões narrativas (71.90%; n= 174/242). Os países de alta renda foram os mais prolíficos (80.05%; n= 337/421 artigos). Não houve publicações de países de baixa ou média renda. Conclusão Embora ainda baixo, o número de publicações mencionando o ENLS vem aumentando recentemente. A maioria dos artigos foram publicados em revistas de medicina intensiva, neurologia, neurocirurgia e medicina de emergência. Artigos de pesquisa secundária foram os mais comuns, com revisões narrativas sendo o subtipo mais frequente.

Role of temporary arterial occlusion in subarachnoid hemorrhage outcomes: a prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: Temporary arterial occlusion (TAO) is a widespread practice in the surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to investigate TAO's role during ruptured aneurysm clipping as an independent prognostic factor on short- and long-term outcomes. METHODS: This prospective cohort included 180 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms and an indication of microsurgical treatment. Patients who died in the first 12 hours after admission were excluded. RESULTS: TAO was associated with intraoperative rupture (IOR) (odds ratio - OR = 10.54; 95% confidence interval - 95%CI 4.72-23.55; p < 0.001) and surgical complications (OR = 2.14; 95%CI 1.11-4.07; p = 0.01). The group with TAO and IOR had no significant difference in clinical (p = 0.06) and surgical (p = 0.94) complications compared to the group that had TAO, but no IOR. Among the 111 patients followed six months after treatment, IOR, number of occlusions, and total time of occlusion were not associated with Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) in the follow-up (respectively, p = 0.18, p = 0.30, and p = 0.73). Among patients who underwent TAO, IOR was also not associated with GOS in the follow-up (p = 0.29). CONCLUSIONS: TAO was associated with IOR and surgical complications, being the latter independent of IOR occurrence. In long-term analysis, neither TAO nor IOR were associated with poor clinical outcomes.

Treatment of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus with a Novel Programmable Valve: Prospective Evaluation of Costs, Efficacy, and Safety.

Objective Programmable valves provide an equal or superior neurological outcome when compared with fixed pressure ones, with fewer complications, in treating idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) patients. Long-term costs of these treatments have not been properly compared in literature. We sought to compare costs, efficacy, and safety of 1-year treatment of iNPH patients with programmable valve Sphera Pro and a fixed pressure valve. Materials and Methods A prospective cohort of iNPH patients treated with programmable valve was compared with a historical cohort of iNPH patients treated with fixed pressure valve. Our primary outcome was mean direct cost of treating iNPH up to 1 year. Efficacy in treating iNPH and safety were assessed as secondary outcomes. Statistical Analysis Proportions were compared using chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Normally distributed variables were compared using the Student's t -test or the Mann-Whitney's U test. Differences in the evolution of the variables over time were assessed using generalized estimating equations. All tests were two-sided, with an α of 0.05. Results A total of 19 patients were analyzed in each group (mean age 75 years, the majority male). Comorbidities and clinical presentation were similar between groups. Both fixed pressure and programmable valve patients had neurological improvement over time ( p < 0.001), but no difference was seen between groups ( p = 0.104). The fixed pressure valve group had more complications than the programmable valve group (52.6% vs. 10.5%, respectively, p = 0.013). Annual treatment cost per patient was US$ 3,820 ± 2,231 in the fixed pressure valve group and US$ 3,108 ± 553 in the programmable valve group. Mean difference was US$712 (95% confidence interval, 393-1,805) in favor of the programmable valve group. Conclusion The Sphera Pro valve with gravitational unit had 1 year treatment cost not higher than that of fixed pressure valve, and resulted in similar efficacy and fewer complications.

Clinical assessment of upper limb impairments and functional capacity in Parkinson's disease: a systematic review / Avaliação clínica de comprometimentos de membros superiores e capacidade funcional na doença de Parkinson: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Parkinson's disease (PD) may progressively reduce the upper limb's functionality. Currently, there is no standardized upper limb functional capacity assessment in PD in the rehabilitation field. Objective To identify specific outcome measurements to assess upper limbs in PD and access functional capacity. Methods We systematically reviewed and analyzed the literature in English published from August/2012 to August/2022 according to PRISMA. The following keywords were used in our search: "upper limbs" OR "upper extremity" and "Parkinson's disease." Two researchers searched independently, including studies accordingly to our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Registered at PROSPERO CRD42021254486. Results We found 797 studies, and 50 were included in this review (n = 2.239 participants in H&Y stage 1-4). The most common upper limbs outcome measures found in the studies were: (i) UPDRS-III and MDS-UPDRS to assess the severity and progression of PD motor symptoms (tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity) (ii) Nine Hole Peg Test and Purdue Pegboard Test to assess manual dexterity; (iii) Spiral test and Funnel test to provoke and assess freezing of upper limbs; (iv) Technology assessment such as wearables sensors, apps, and other device were also found. Conclusion We found evidence to support upper limb impairments assessments in PD. However, there is still a large shortage of specific tests to assess the functional capacity of the upper limbs. The upper limbs' functional capacity is insufficiently investigated during the clinical and rehabilitation examination due to a lack of specific outcome measures to assess functionality.

Resumo Antecedentes A doença de Parkinson (DP) reduz progressivamente a funcionalidade do membro superior. Não existe uma avaliação padronizada da capacidade funcional do membro superior na DP na área da reabilitação. Objetivo Identificar medidas de resultados específicos para avaliar membros superiores na DP e avaliar capacidade funcional. Métodos Revisamos e analisamos sistematicamente a literatura publicada de agosto/2012 a agosto/2022 de acordo com PRISMA. Usamos as seguintes palavras-chave "membros superiores" OU "extremidade superior" e "doença de Parkinson." Dois pesquisadores fizeram a busca de forma independente, incluindo estudos de acordo com os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Registro PROSPERO CRD42021254486. Resultados Encontramos 797 estudos, 50 foram incluídos no estudo(n = 2.239 participantes no estágio 1-4 de H&Y). As medidas de resultados de membros superiores mais comuns encontradas foram: (i) UPDRS-III e MDS-UPDRS, para avaliar a gravidade e a progressão dos sintomas motores da DP (tremor, bradicinesia, e rigidez); (ii) Nine Hole Peg Test e Purdue Pegboard Test para avaliar a destreza manual; (iii) Teste da Espiral e Teste do Funil para provocar e avaliar o congelamento de membros superiores; (iv) Avaliação de tecnologia, como sensores vestíveis, aplicativos e outros dispositivos também foram encontrados. Conclusão Encontramos evidências para dar suporte para as avaliações de deficiências de membros superiores na DP. No entanto, ainda há grande escassez de testes específicos para avaliar a capacidade funcional dos membros superiores. A capacidade funcional dos membros superior é insuficientemente investigada durante o exame clínico e de reabilitação devido à falta de medidas de resultados específicos para avaliar a funcionalidade.

Long-term tonic spinal cord stimulation in advanced Parkinson's disease: No effect from stimulation under placebo-controlled evaluation.

•Chronic spinal cord stimulation effectiveness was evaluated in four PD patients.•Double blinded cross over evaluation was performed using subthreshold stimulation.•An open label evaluation with regular suprathreshold stimulation was also performed.•No statistically significant effect was produced with either stimulation.•This study highlights the lack of strong clinical evidence supporting SCS for PD.

Clinical assessment of upper limb impairments and functional capacity in Parkinson's disease: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) may progressively reduce the upper limb's functionality. Currently, there is no standardized upper limb functional capacity assessment in PD in the rehabilitation field. OBJECTIVE: To identify specific outcome measurements to assess upper limbs in PD and access functional capacity. METHODS: We systematically reviewed and analyzed the literature in English published from August/2012 to August/2022 according to PRISMA. The following keywords were used in our search: "upper limbs" OR "upper extremity" and "Parkinson's disease." Two researchers searched independently, including studies accordingly to our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Registered at PROSPERO CRD42021254486. RESULTS: We found 797 studies, and 50 were included in this review (n = 2.239 participants in H&Y stage 1-4). The most common upper limbs outcome measures found in the studies were: (i) UPDRS-III and MDS-UPDRS to assess the severity and progression of PD motor symptoms (tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity) (ii) Nine Hole Peg Test and Purdue Pegboard Test to assess manual dexterity; (iii) Spiral test and Funnel test to provoke and assess freezing of upper limbs; (iv) Technology assessment such as wearables sensors, apps, and other device were also found. CONCLUSION: We found evidence to support upper limb impairments assessments in PD. However, there is still a large shortage of specific tests to assess the functional capacity of the upper limbs. The upper limbs' functional capacity is insufficiently investigated during the clinical and rehabilitation examination due to a lack of specific outcome measures to assess functionality.

ANTECEDENTES: A doença de Parkinson (DP) reduz progressivamente a funcionalidade do membro superior. Não existe uma avaliação padronizada da capacidade funcional do membro superior na DP na área da reabilitação. OBJETIVO: Identificar medidas de resultados específicos para avaliar membros superiores na DP e avaliar capacidade funcional. MéTODOS: Revisamos e analisamos sistematicamente a literatura publicada de agosto/2012 a agosto/2022 de acordo com PRISMA. Usamos as seguintes palavras-chave "membros superiores" OU "extremidade superior" e "doença de Parkinson." Dois pesquisadores fizeram a busca de forma independente, incluindo estudos de acordo com os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Registro PROSPERO CRD42021254486. RESULTADOS: Encontramos 797 estudos, 50 foram incluídos no estudo(n = 2.239 participantes no estágio 1­4 de H&Y). As medidas de resultados de membros superiores mais comuns encontradas foram: (i) UPDRS-III e MDS-UPDRS, para avaliar a gravidade e a progressão dos sintomas motores da DP (tremor, bradicinesia, e rigidez); (ii) Nine Hole Peg Test e Purdue Pegboard Test para avaliar a destreza manual; (iii) Teste da Espiral e Teste do Funil para provocar e avaliar o congelamento de membros superiores; (iv) Avaliação de tecnologia, como sensores vestíveis, aplicativos e outros dispositivos também foram encontrados. CONCLUSãO: Encontramos evidências para dar suporte para as avaliações de deficiências de membros superiores na DP. No entanto, ainda há grande escassez de testes específicos para avaliar a capacidade funcional dos membros superiores. A capacidade funcional dos membros superior é insuficientemente investigada durante o exame clínico e de reabilitação devido à falta de medidas de resultados específicos para avaliar a funcionalidade.

Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict Delayed Cerebral Ischemia After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a common and severe complication after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Logistic regression (LR) is the primary method to predict DCI, but it has low accuracy. This study assessed whether other machine learning (ML) models can predict DCI after SAH more accurately than conventional LR. PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies directly comparing LR and other ML algorithms to forecast DCI in patients with SAH. Our main outcome was the accuracy measurement, represented by sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic. In the six studies included, comprising 1828 patients, about 28% (519) developed DCI. For LR models, the pooled sensitivity was 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57-0.84; p < 0.01) and the pooled specificity was 0.63 (95% CI 0.42-0.85; p < 0.01). For ML models, the pooled sensitivity was 0.74 (95% CI 0.61-0.86; p < 0.01) and the pooled specificity was 0.78 (95% CI 0.71-0.86; p = 0.02). Our results suggest that ML algorithms performed better than conventional LR at predicting DCI.Trial Registration: PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) CRD42023441586; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=441586.

Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy Compared to Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma in Patients with Type 2 Neurofibromatosis.

BACKGROUND: The use of radiotherapy (RT) for the treatment of vestibulocochlear schwannomas is standard in patients with type 2 neurofibromatosis (NF2). In the general population, fractionated RT (FRT) can achieve good results compared to single-dose radiosurgery (SRS). We aimed to assess whether this is true for NF2 patients as well. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 34 patients and 54 lesions treated between 2010 and 2023 in a single university hospital. RESULTS: Thirty-four patient charts were assessed. The median follow-up was 62.6 months (range, 7.1-135.8 months). Lesion size (median larger diameter, 2.5 cm) was correlated with the use of FRT (P > 0.001). Younger age also was correlated with FRT (P = 0.006). Median overall survival and progression-free survival (PFS) were not reached. The overall control rate was 76.5%, and the mean PFS was 49.8 months, compared with . 90.5% and 57.2 months, respectively, for SRS and 66.7% and 44.9 months, respectively, for FRT. There were no differences between the 2 groups in hearing loss, tinnitus, and facial palsy. CONCLUSIONS: In the NF2 population, FRT may yield worse control rates than SRS. Whenever possible, it is preferable to not fractionate treatment for these patients. Nevertheless, the FRT results were still good. More and larger prospective trials are warranted.

Parkinson's Disease-related Pains are Not Equal: Clinical, Somatosensory and Cortical Excitability Findings in Individuals With Nociceptive Pain.

Chronic pain is a frequent and burdensome nonmotor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). PD-related chronic pain can be classified as nociceptive, neuropathic, or nociplastic, the former being the most frequent subtype. However, differences in neurophysiologic profiles between these pain subtypes, and their potential prognostic and therapeutic implications have not been explored yet. This is a cross-sectional study on patients with PD (PwP)-related chronic pain (ie, started with or was aggravated by PD). Subjects were assessed for clinical and pain characteristics through questionnaires and underwent quantitative sensory tests and motor corticospinal excitability (CE) evaluations. Data were then compared between individuals with nociceptive and non-nociceptive (ie, neuropathic or nociplastic) pains. Thirty-five patients were included (51.4% male, 55.7 ± 11.0 years old), 20 of which had nociceptive pain. Patients with nociceptive PD-related pain had lower warm detection threshold (WDT, 33.34 ± 1.39 vs 34.34 ± 1.72, P = .019) and mechanical detection threshold (MDT, 2.55 ± 1.54 vs 3.86 ± .97, P = .007) compared to those with non-nociceptive pains. They also presented a higher proportion of low rest motor threshold values than the non-nociceptive pain ones (64.7% vs 26.6%, P = .048). In non-nociceptive pain patients, there was a negative correlation between WDT and non-motor symptoms scores (r = -.612, P = .045) and a positive correlation between MDT and average pain intensity (r = .629, P = .038), along with neuropathic pain symptom scores (r = .604, P = .049). It is possible to conclude that PD-related chronic pain subtypes have distinctive somatosensory and CE profiles. These preliminary data may help better frame previous contradictory findings in PwP and may have implications for future trial designs aiming at developing individually-tailored therapies. PERSPECTIVE: This work showed that PwP-related nociceptive chronic pain may have distinctive somatosensory and CE profiles than those with non-nociceptive pain subtypes. These data may help shed light on previous contradictory findings in PwP and guide future trials aiming at developing individually-tailored management strategies.

Prospective Analysis of Cerebral Edema Admission and Clinical Outcome in Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysm.

AIM: To evaluate the association between global cerebral edema (GCE) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and its impact on functional outcome evaluated by the modified Rankin scale (mRS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study with patients who were admitted to the hospital due to SAH. During the period from January 2018 to November 2019, 107 patients with intracranial aneurysms were enrolled. Using univariate and multivariate analysis, we sought to identify predictors and evaluated the impact of GCE on outcome after 6 months using the mRS. RESULTS: GCE was present in 54 (50.5%) patients, of which 27 (25.2%) were mild, 20 (18.7%) moderate and 7 (6.5%) were severe. Univariate analysis identified high Hunt-Hess and Glasgow coma scale on clinical admission as predictors factors of GCE (p < 0.05), and higher modified Fisher scale as a radiological predictor of Glasgow coma scale (p < 0.05). Thirty-three (30.8%) patients were deceased at 6 months. Death or severe disability were predicted by higher age, poor clinical scale on admission and severe GCE (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: GCE on admission is independently associated with poor clinical outcomes at discharge, and six months after SAH. Given its strong association with poor clinical grade on admission, GCE should be considered a straightforward and radiological important marker of early brain injury, with ominous implications.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios and prognosis after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) prognosis remains poor. Vasospasm mechanism might be associated with inflammation. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been studied as inflammation markers and prognostic predictors. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate NLR and PLR in admission as predictors of angiographic vasospasm and functional outcome at 6 months. METHODS: This cohort study included consecutive aneurysmal SAH patients admitted to a tertiary center. Complete blood count was recorded at admission before treatment. White blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, NLR, and PLR were collected as independent variables. Vasospasm occurrence-modified Rankin scale (mRS), Glasgow outcome scale (GOS), and Hunt-Hess score at admission and at 6 months were recorded as dependent variables. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for potential confounding and to assess the independent prognostic value of NLR and PLR at admission. RESULTS: A total of 74.1% of the patients were female, with mean age of 55.6 ± 12.4 years. At admission, the median Hunt-Hess score was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1), and the median mFisher was 3 (IQR 1). Microsurgical clipping was the treatment for 66.2% of the patients. Angiographic vasospasm incidence was 16.5%. At 6 months, the median GOS was 4 (IQR 0.75), and the median mRS was 3 (IQR 1.5). Twenty-one patients (15.1%) died. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and PLR levels did not differ between favorable and unfavorable (mRS > 2 or GOS < 4) functional outcomes. No variables were significantly associated with angiographic vasospasm. CONCLUSION: Admission NLR and PLR presented no value for prediction of functional outcome or angiographic vasospasm risk. Further research is needed in this field.

ANTECEDENTES: O prognóstico da hemorragia subaracnoidea (HSA) permanece ruim. Vasoespasmo pode estar associado à inflamação. Razões neutrófilo-linfócito (NLR) e plaqueta-linfócito (PLR) têm sido estudadas como marcadores de inflamação e prognóstico. OBJETIVO: Investigar NLR e PLR na admissão como preditores de vasoespasmo angiográfico e desfecho aos 6 meses. MéTODOS: Este estudo de coorte incluiu pacientes consecutivos com HSA aneurismática de um centro terciário. Contagem de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas, proporção de neutrófilos para linfócitos e de plaquetas para linfócitos foram coletados como variáveis independentes. Ocorrência de vasoespasmo, escala de Rankin modificada, escala de desfecho de Glasgow e o escore de Hunt-Hess na admissão e 6 meses após a mesma foram registradas como variáveis dependentes. Modelos de regressão logística multivariável foram usados para ajustar potenciais fatores de confusão e avaliar valor prognóstico independente de NLR e PLR. RESULTADOS: Um total de 74,1% pacientes eram do sexo feminino, com idade média de 55,6 ± 12,4 anos. Na admissão, a pontuação média de Hunt-Hess foi de 2 (IQR 1) e a mediana de mFisher foi de 3 (IQR 1). Clipagem microcirúrgica foi o tratamento escolhido para 66,2% dos pacientes. A incidência de vasoespasmo angiográfico foi de 16,5%. Aos 6 meses, a escala de desfecho de Glasgow mediana era 4 (IQR 0,75) e a escala de Rankin modificada mediana era 3 (IQR 1,5). Vinte e um pacientes (15,1%) morreram. Os níveis de NLR e PLR não diferiram entre resultados funcionais favoráveis e desfavoráveis (mRS > 2 ou GOS < 4). Nenhuma variável foi significativamente associada ao vasoespasmo angiográfico. CONCLUSãO: Razão neutrófilo-linfócito e a PLR não apresentaram valor preditivo de desfecho funcional ou risco de vasoespasmo angiográfico. Mais pesquisas são necessárias neste campo.